Breakout session 1 | What I wish I knew as a public defender


Oliver shares insights gained from transitioning to private practice after years with Missouri's Public Defender’s Office. Explore effective strategies for managing civil aspects of DWI cases, challenging probable cause, and leveraging case law to enhance defense tactics in criminal practice.

In her presentation, Oliver focuses on pivotal lessons learned during her transition from public defender to private practice, specializing in DWI defense. She addresses navigating the civil ramifications of DWI cases, employing strategies to challenge probable cause supported by case law examples, integrating administrative outcomes into criminal defense strategies, mastering NHTSA and ARIDE manuals for comprehensive defense tactics, and utilizing weak probable cause to negotiate favorable outcomes. Attendees will acquire practical insights and strategies to elevate their DWI defense practices encompassing both civil and criminal facets of litigation.

Speaker: Megan G. Oliver, Benjamin Law Firm, Belton         

Opinions and positions stated by presenters of MoBarCLE programs are those of the presenters and not necessarily those of The Missouri Bar. This program is intended as information for lawyers in Missouri, in conjunction with other research they deem necessary, in the exercise of their independent judgment.